California Injury Blog
A man suffered fatal injuries in a car accident, which officials say, involved a hit and run driver. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the fatal crash occurred on Beach Boulevard between Ball Road and Orange Avenue the night of April 23. Police say the victim may have been standing in the northbound lane closest to the sidewalk when he was struck and sustained severe head trauma. The victim was described as a man in his mid-20s. He was unresponsive when police arrived and was pronounced dead at the scene. A description of the vehicle involved in the crash or its driver was not immediately available.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of this deceased victim for their heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
What the Law States
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the vehicle struck the man and fled the scene of the accident. Under California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a), it is illegal to leave the scene of a collision that has resulted in an injury or death. Motorists are required to stop immediately at the scene of a crash, remain at the scene until officials arrive, exchange pertinent information with other parties involved in the collision and most importantly, obtain help for injured victims. This may be something as simple as calling 911.
When it comes to pedestrian accidents or any type of car accident, getting prompt medical attention could help save lives. Drivers who leave the scene of a crash could face felony criminal charges even if it is determined that they did not cause the collision. Just the act of leaving the scene of an injury crash is deemed a criminal violation under California law.
Justice for Victims and Families
In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering, and loss of love and companionship.
Hit-and-run victims or families of those killed in hit-and-run crashes may be able to seek compensation through the uninsured motorist clause of their auto insurance policies. In addition, they may also be able to seek compensation from the at-fault driver. An experienced Orange County car accident lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2020/04/23/man-killed-in-anaheim-hit-and-run-crash/